Florida State University announced this afternoon that its main campus will reopen Monday, Oct. 15, as scheduled. Local officials are optimistic that 90 percent of power in Tallahassee will be restored by Sunday, Oct. 14. About 800 utility and resource workers are working tirelessly throughout the city towards this goal.

"We've been working closely since the hurricane passed through with the city and other agencies to monitor power being restored," FSU President John Thrasher said. "We feel like it's a safe campus to come back to. I think we're in good shape overall."

For FSU Panama City students, it may be weeks before they can return. The campus and its surrounding communities were devastated by Hurricane Michael that sustained winds just short of a Category 5 storm. Students are advised to stay out of the area at this time, if possible.

"Our campus in Panama City was hit really hard, and we don't expect to open down there for another couple weeks because we have a lot of significant repairs to do and debris and tree removal," Thrasher said. "But on campus, we've been monitoring closely with the city."

Thrasher and FSU's Chief of Police David Perry visited the Panama City campus a few days ago, and it was clear that recovery will be long-term. Service maintenance have to bring their own equipment and work off generators. Thrasher said that the administration is working with the Provost to figure out how students can make up classes.

"There is no electricity in Panama City," Thrasher said. "Zero."

University administrators made a preliminary assessment on Thursday, where they found that the campus sustained roof and water damage, as well as multiple broken windows. Crews immediately started on repairs that evening.

The administration is in discussion about making accommodations for students who may now be homeless and will have to relocate. For now, Chief Perry tells students to seek refuge in local shelters that have opened around the area.

As for Tallahassee's ongoing recovery efforts, Chief Perry asks students and employees to give tree companies, utility crews and emergency service vehicles access to the roads.

Chief Perry also advises anyone on interstate to use caution and be aware of obstructions on road. He urges drivers to avoid evasive action without making sure that lanes are clear and treat any intersection that isn't functioning properly as a four-way stop.

"I've seen too many near-miss accidents these past few days," Chief Perry said.

During this "critical time when people are in need," he encourages the community to volunteer and donate if they can.

"This is the time to help fellow students and citizens," Chief Perry said.

The administration is aware that some students living off campus, as well as faculty and staff, may not have power yet their homes, but there are restaurants, gas stations and apartment complexes with restored power around Tallahassee.